This is a subject that gets debated year after year and still there is no concrete solution.

In general, I do not believe this is a matter of being "cool" or "uncool". This is more likely to be the result of one, or a combination of several other factors. Low self-esteem, work is not challenging enough, its boring, there is a failure to understand, laziness, immaturity, or other causes.

Add to this, the different teaching styles and demands placed on students time and you have a combination that could spell trouble. Teachers must step up to the plate on this issue. They must recognize that not all students learn at the same pace. Where some excel others lag behind. Teachers must be prepared to adapt their teaching styles and they must be flexible enough to leave no student behind.

Parents must also step up to the plate and take some responsibility in seeing to it that their children get the best education possible. While it is true many parents work and have very hectic lifestyles, this does not release them from their responsibility. Don't know the subject? Then learn right along side your child. You may find this to be a very effective way to get your child to do his/her homework and you may find them teaching you.

Thinking about this, I was reminded that I, myself was terrible at getting my homework done. For me, it was probably sheer laziness and I managed to slide through school with a nice "C" average. After a stint in the army, I went back to school at a local college and managed to carry a 3+ grade point average. What was different?
I was older, more mature for sure, but I also realized school meant something. This was my future I was dealing with and so I worked hard to get my good grades.

In closing, should there be homework? Yes and no. I think homework promotes good study habits, but I also believe it is over done by many teachers.

Parents, teachers and students must work together and that starts by talking to each other. Homework may not be what is in the best interest for you child. Tutoring may be required, or your child may just need that little bit of extra help from mom or dad, or the little extra motivation.

Learn more about this author, Jeff Kramer.
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